BAR-20 Hopalong Cassidy, Book 5

Hopalong Cassidy, the funny, daring cowpuncher with a limp, originated in the writing of Mulford. Narrator R.C. Bray has the rough-and-tumble voice listeners would expect of a cowhand and a novel full of ranch slang and shootin', gamblin', and brawlin'. The novel treats cowpunchers and Mexicans stereotypically. Moreover, as Cassidy tracks a murderer and chases rustlers, the adventures can seem repetitive and episodic. However, Bray's narration is excellent, making the most of Mulford's descriptions and asides. Better yet, Mulford delivers an ending that, while not action packed, pulls the story together satisfactorily. Fans of Cassidy or other vintage Westerns won't be able to resist. J.A.S. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2013]